Before heading to Denver, Laura Velasquez says goodbye

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) – After seven years with WOOD-TV, Meteorologist Laura Velasquez is taking her forecasts to new heights.

Laura will be trading in the Great Lakes for the Rocky Mountains as she has accepted a job with KDVR-TV in Denver, Colo.

“We’ve watched her grow from an intern to a respected scientist and professional meteorologist. Laura spent tireless hours working to get her AWS and NWA seals while keeping West Michigan viewers on top of the changing weather conditions,” said WOOD-TV News Director Rebecca Sapakie. “Laura is passionate about the weather and our community.”

Below is a personal message from Laura:

“I can’t believe this time has come; my last week at WOOD-TV. I’ve been so blessed and so incredibly fortunate to have the privilege to work at my hometown station for the past seven years. Most folks spend their career trying to get home and I was lucky enough to start here!

This station and my fantastic colleagues have given me every avenue to be successful, and now I am going to take that knowledge and preparation with me to KDVR in Denver, CO. This is a huge opportunity and I am beyond grateful!

I’ve worked really hard forecasting the weather downwind of Lake Michigan and I am already looking forward to the challenge of forecasting for the high plains, foothills, and Rockies.

It’s hard to leave, but I’ll be back often to visit family and friends, so if you see me out and about, please feel free to say hi!

Just remember; West Michigan will always be home and I love you all. Thanks for all of your support and compliments, and of course for watching!”

Laura’s last day on air will be July 4. While we’re sad to see her go, join us in congratulating her on her new job!